In Egypt, Libya's ruler, Muammar Qaddafi , signalled that the trial in the Netherlands of the two Libyan suspects in the Lockerbie case might take place soon.

ECONOMIST: The easing of Iran

Scotland's top prosecutor had previously written to the new Libyan prime minister for help and the UK government had said it was pressing Tripoli "for swift progress and co-operation" on the Lockerbie case.

BBC: Lockerbie plane

The proposals in the second part of the bill were prompted by the case of Abdelbaset Al-Megrahi, who was convicted of murder following the Lockerbie bombing.

BBC: Criminal Cases Bill debate 1